What could be better than exploring Iceland’s dramatic landscapes? Experiencing these magical places during Iceland’s 2026 total solar eclipse!
Happening on August 12, 2026, Iceland is one of the rare places in Europe where you’ll be able to witness a total solar eclipse. Because the path of totality is so narrow for this eclipse, there’s a lot to know if you want to witness it.
Read on to discover everything you need to know about Iceland’s best eclipse viewing locations and how to get there (hint: by rental car)!
What to Know About the Iceland Eclipse 2026
It’s important to know that not all of Iceland will experience a total eclipse. The path of totality for Iceland’s 2026 eclipse encompasses Reykjavik, the Reykjanes Peninsula, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and a portion of the Westfjords.
The center line of totality won’t be visible at all in Iceland, but this is simply an indicator of time for the total eclipse. For example, Reykjavik will only have about 1 minute of totality whereas locations in the center (like those across Spain) will have 2 minutes and 18 seconds of totality.
In fact, the only countries that will experience this solar eclipse are Russia (a small sliver in the country’s very remote north), Greenland, Iceland, Portugal (a teeny tiny spot), and Spain. This makes Iceland one of the best places to see it!
Unlike locations like Spain, viewers in Iceland have a chance to see the Northern Lights during totality, depending on if a solar storm is occuring in unison.
Best Places in Iceland to See the Solar Eclipse
Westfjords – Coastline Views & Wide Horizons
Iceland’s rugged and remote Westfjords are one of the best places in Iceland to see the solar eclipse. Small fishing villages, like Grundarfjörður and Ísafjörður, will have some of the longest totality times in the country.
Because this area is so isolated, you’ll also have minimal light pollution and see the eclipse coupled with stunning landscapes.
The Westfjords are best reached by rental car! While this region is typically closed off in the winter due to snow and ice, the eclipse is luckily occuring in August which means you won’t have any trouble exploring this gorgeous region of the country.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula – A Dramatic Setting
Another of Iceland’s most beautiful region’s, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is a great location to experience the total eclipse.
The path of totality will completely encompass the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, but you’ll have the longest amount of totality time on the peninsula’s westernmost tip.
Like the Westfjords, this region has a low population density which also equates to low light pollution, although you’ll likely be sharing the road and popular sights with other eclipse viewers.
Some of the best sights to enjoy the eclipse here are Kirkjufell Mountain, at the Gerðuberg Cliffs, Ytri-Tunga Beach, and Snæfellsjökull National Park.
Reykjavík Area – For Travelers Short on Time
For visitors who are short on time, you’ll be happy to know that Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik, also happens to be in the path of totality.
While this area doesn’t have the dramatic landscapes of other regions, it will no doubt be a fun location to experience the eclipse, surrounded by other visitors and Icelanders.
If you want to see the moon cover the sun in a less densely populated area of the city, drive out to the Grotta Island Lighthouse or Alftanes Beach.
Reykjanes Peninsula
The Reykjanes Peninsula, where the Keflavik Airport is located, is another destination in Iceland where the total solar eclipse can be viewed. And yes, that includes the Blue Lagoon!
This area has also seen an intense surge of volcanic activity in recent years, too, which means that you might even get to see lava spewing from the ground in combination with the total solar eclipse.
A few other areas on the Reykjanes Peninsula that would be ideal for watching the eclipse include the Reykjanes Lighthouse, Gunnuhver Geothermal Area, and the Brimketill lava rock pool.
Best Rental Cars for Eclipse Chasing in Iceland
Which rental car you should book for chasing the solar eclipse in Iceland will depend on where you’re planning to go!
A compact, 2WD car is perfect for exploring the Reykjanes Peninsula, Snæfellsnes, and Reykjavik. You’ll most likely need a 4WD vehicle for routes in the Westfjords, as some roads are gravel or dirt. This also affords you the ability to use these roads in case you want to go off-the-beaten path during the eclipse, just make sure you don’t drive off road which is illegal in Iceland.
Firefly Iceland is one of the best car rental companies in Iceland because it’s budget-friendly, has good availability — even in the peak travel season, and you can pick up your car from the KEF Airport or Reykjavik, further adding flexibility to your itinerary!
What to Pack for the 2026 Total Solar Eclipse in Iceland
You’ll need to pack a few specific items to make your eclipse viewing a success in Iceland!
Be sure to bring a pair (or multiple pairs) of eclipse glasses — the only safe way to view the eclipse before totality. You’ll also want to bring a camera, tripod, and plenty of warm layers as you’ll be standing outside, potentially for long periods of time.
Downloading Google Maps ahead of your road trip is ideal in case you’re planning to head to remote areas of Iceland.
Don’t forget to stop by the grocery store and gas station to fuel up (in more ways than one!) before heading out. Some of the best areas for seeing the eclipse are far from gas stations and restaurants!
Weather & Visibility Tips for August 12, 2026
August is one of Iceland’s warmest months with average highs hovering around 59°F. Still, Iceland has chilly summers by most visitors’ standards.
Rainfall does increase from July, but precipitation is unpredictable in Iceland at any time of year. That being said, clouds could unexpectedly roll in, obscuring your view of the eclipse, which is why it’s extra important to rent a car in case you need to change your plans at the last second.
This way, you’ll have the freedom to chase clearer skies along the eclipse path.
Why You Should Book Your Rental Car Early for the Iceland Eclipse 2026
For those thinking about visiting Iceland for the 2026 eclipse, you’ll want to book your rental car well in advance!
August is already a very popular time of year for visitors and demand for rental cars skyrockets. Couple that with the influx of visitors for the eclipse and you’ll want to book at least six months in advance (if not a year)!
Luckily, those who book early will also get better prices and you can guarantee what type of car you’ll get. While Firefly Iceland has a slightly older fleet, all of our vehicles are reliable and in great condition.
Bonus – Extend Your Trip Beyond the Eclipse
While the eclipse might be the main event for your trip to Iceland, there are so many incredible ways to extend your time in this beautiful country. With that said, you’ll get a better deal on your rental car the longer you rent it. Just another excuse to stick around Iceland for more than just a few days! Here are a few ideas for nearby attractions post-eclipse…
Golden Circle
A half or full day road trip from Reykjavik, the Golden Circle offers highlights like the Þingvellir National Park, Geyser Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall.
Snæfellsjökull National Park
If you’re planning to see the eclipse on the Snæfellsjökull Peninsula, you can’t miss the chance to explore Snæfellsjökull National Park. Home to one of the country’s most famous glaciers of the same name, featured in the book by Jules Verne, “Journey to the Center of the Earth”.
Blue Lagoon
For those who want to see the eclipse from the Reykjanes Peninsula, plan to stop by the Blue Lagoon afterwards for a relaxing dip in the geothermal waters.
Conclusion
Mark your calendars for August 12, 2026 to experience Iceland’s total solar eclipse and don’t forget to plan your trip around the path of totality.
Renting a car is one of the most important parts of the planning process and you can count on Firefly Iceland to provide inexpensive yet reliable rental cars for your adventure!